What Is a Proton Acceptor?
In chemistry, a substance that can accept a proton is commonly thought of as a base. By accepting protons, proton acceptors are essentially able to remove a hydrogen ion from solution, which is essentially a bare proton. Proton acceptors can be seen as the opposite of acids (proton donors) and can neutralize each other. Proton acceptors can be rated as to their strength and have certain properties, such as being bitter and caustic.
Other People Are Reading
-
Identification
-
Bases are commonly thought of as proton acceptors in chemistry. This refers to the Bronsted theory of acids and bases, which classifies proton donors as acids and proton acceptors as bases. Another definition of bases includes the Lewis theory of bases which classify bases as electron donors. Alternately, the Arrhenius theory of bases classify them as being able to produce hydroxide ions.
Function
-
Bases are essentially the opposite of acids. Acids, when put into water, increase the amount of hydronium ions, which lower the pH. Bases lower the amount of hydronium ions. When acids and bases are mixed together, they yield salts and water.
-
Types
-
Bases can be defined by their strength. A strong base is one which is able to turn completely into hydroxide when put into water. In addition, strong bases can remove the protons from a weak acid, even without water present. Base strength is often measured by pKa, a measure of the ability of a base to turn into hydroxide in water. A pKa of greater than 13 usually means a strong base.
Features
-
There are certain properties that are characteristics of bases. hey tend to feel slimy or slippery on human skin. Strong or concentrated bases are caustic and corrode organic matter, as well as reacting strongly with acids. Aqueous solutions conduct electricity. They also can react with certain chemical indicators, turning red litmus paper blue.
Considerations
-
Bases are important for many chemical reactions. They are used in antacids to help neutralize stomach acid. They also serve as catalysts for many chemical reactions. In addition, weak bases and their conjugate salts are used as a buffer in many chemical systems. A prominent example of this is in the blood stream, where a slightly basic pH is needed to be maintained for the function of many proteins and other molecules.
-
